Rehua stands as a figure of profound sacredness within the rich and intricate tapestry of Maori deities. This post meticulously investigates historical accounts of Rehua's mythology, origins, roles, and symbolism.
Origins and Lineage
Historical accounts consistently present Rehua as a son of Rangi, the Sky Father, and Papa, the Earth Mother. This lineage places him among the fundamental deities in the Maori creation narrative. Some traditions, particularly those of the Ngai Tahu in the South Island, identify Rehua as the eldest son of this primordial pair. While the pre-1950 texts may not always explicitly detail this seniority, the emphasis on his sacredness and high celestial abode hints at a distinguished position within the divine family. Furthermore, certain legends propose that Rehua initially manifested as lightning before assuming a human form upon ascending to the heavens. This association with lightning underscores his powerful and potentially transformative nature. Genealogical links also connect Rehua to other significant figures in Maori mythology, most notably as an ancestor of the demigod Maui. This ancestral connection further solidifies Rehua's importance within the overarching mythological framework.
The consistent attribution of Rehua's parentage to Rangi and Papa across various accounts signifies a core element of his mythological identity, establishing his foundational role within the Maori cosmos. Variations in his initial form and specific lineage details, however, suggest the diverse nature of oral traditions across different iwi (tribes).
Roles and Responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities attributed to Rehua in historical texts highlight his significant power and influence across multiple domains. He is primarily described as residing in the highest heavens, often specified as Te Putahi-nui-o-Rehua within Rangi-tuarea, which is sometimes identified as the tenth heaven. This elevated dwelling place underscores his supreme status and connection to the celestial realm. Rehua is also strongly associated with specific stars. For the Tūhoe people, he is identified with Antares, while other traditions link him to Betelgeuse or Sirius. This stellar identification emphasizes the importance of astronomy in Maori cosmology and Rehua's role as a celestial being. Notably, Rehua possesses extraordinary healing powers, including the ability to cure blindness, revive the dead, and heal all diseases. This attribute positions him as a benevolent and life-giving deity. Some accounts also depict him as a guardian of the outermost heaven, further highlighting his supreme celestial authority. Beyond the heavens, Rehua is associated with warmth, light, and life, embodying positive and vital forces within the universe.
Key Myths and Legends
Several key myths and legends feature Rehua prominently. One significant narrative describes the visit of Tane, the god of forests, to Rehua in the highest heaven. Accounts detail Rehua having birds in his hair, feeding on lice, a sight that shocked Tane due to Rehua's immense sacredness (tapu). Despite this initial reaction, Rehua generously provided Tane with birds to take to the world and instructed him on the art of snaring them. Furthermore, Tane also brought back fruit trees that the birds consumed, which led to the establishment of forests and birdlife on Earth. This myth underscores Rehua's power to bestow life and his connection to the natural world. Another important legend involves Rupe's ascent to Rehua in search of his lost sister, Hina. Rupe journeyed to the tenth heaven, where Rehua resided, and Rehua informed him of Hina's whereabouts. In this narrative, Rupe is said to have assumed the form of a dove or pigeon (rupe) for his travels.
Symbolism
Symbolism associated with Rehua in older texts primarily revolves around his celestial nature. His most prominent symbol is the star, particularly Antares in some traditions. This stellar association underscores his dominion over the heavens and his role as a guiding light. The Tui bird also appears as a significant symbol, particularly in later interpretations of Tane's visit, where the Tui is seen in Rehua's hair. Rehua's initial manifestation as lightning in some Ngai Tahu traditions symbolizes his immense power and sudden, transformative presence. The concepts of warmth and light are also intrinsically linked to Rehua, aligning with his association with summer and his benevolent, life-giving nature.
Rehua's Place in Maori Cosmology
Within the broader context of Maori cosmology, Rehua occupies a position of considerable significance. His dwelling in the highest heavens signifies his supreme or very high status within the pantheon. His involvement in creation narratives, such as the creation of Hawaiki and the provision of the mind to the first woman, underscores his active role in shaping the Maori universe and the emergence of humankind.
Conclusion
In summary, the historical accounts of Rehua found in pre-1950 texts depict him as a highly sacred and powerful figure within the Maori pantheon. His mythology consistently places him as a son of Rangi and Papa, residing in the highest heavens and strongly associated with stars, particularly Antares. Rehua is renowned for his extraordinary healing abilities, including curing blindness and reviving the dead, underscoring his role as a benevolent and life-giving deity.
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